5 Facts You should Know About Peptic Ulcers
4. Endoscopy is a method where a thin flexible tube is threaded down the esophagus into the stomach under light anesthesia. The endoscope is fitted with a small camera so the physician can see if there is an ulcer. In the barium meal method, a chalky liquid is drunk and an x-ray is performed, showing the stomach lining. These tests are less common nowadays, but may be useful where endoscopy is unavailable. In the biopsy method, a small tissue sample is taken during an endoscopy and tested in a laboratory. This biopsy is done if a gastric ulcer is found. The C14 breath test is conducted to check for the presence of H. pylori. The bacteria convert urea into carbon dioxide. The test involves swallowing an amount of radioactive carbon (C14) and testing the air exhaled from the lungs. A non-radioactive test is normally used for children and pregnant women.
5. Stomach ulcers or peptic ulcers can be treated with medication such as antibiotics, reduction of acid in the body and some lifestyle adjustments such as desisting from eating food from outside and stopping smoking and drinking.
